About

Just enough flow, just enough alignment

“I like that the pace of transitions between poses is designed to create a flow of movement.” Student Anne S

Our classes are a flow style, and the flow is moderate enough that you have time to sense inwardly and find your optimal alignment in each pose. We are NOT a hot studio, and keep the room at a healthy temperature for practice. We are here to share time-tested and evolving wisdom for sanity and healing and teach to your real body and the heart that lives in it.

Everyone is welcome here

Our methodology and offerings are time tested, guided by Denise Benitez, who founded the studio in 1990. Under the guidance of our skilled teachers, find space and strength that you didn’t know you had using alignment principles that release tension, create strength, and allow freedom of expression.

We know yoga doesn’t contain everything, so we are also dedicated to the study of innovative and effective biomechanics and somatic research and inquiry into meditation and consciousness streams from every tradition.

What to expect

Our community is welcoming, so feel free to introduce yourself to the students around you, and ask them any questions.

Please be sure to introduce yourself to your teacher and tell them if you are new to yoga. They will want to know about any injuries or limitations.

Class begins with a brief period of seated centering, then warm-up movements, and builds steadily to a pinnacle pose. Cooling down poses are followed by a reclining rest (savasana).

Always feel free to rest during practice; your teacher will never force or push you to stay in poses. You will build strength and endurance over time. Enjoy your practice, and always let us know how we can make your yoga experience more enjoyable!

What you should know

When should I arrive? Please arrive 10-15 minutes before your class begins. Check-in with reception and he/she will direct you to class and answer questions, take payments, etc. If you are running late, please know you are still welcome! However, please wait outside the class door, or stand quietly in the back of the room until the brief, seated centering and/or chanting has concluded.

What should I wear and bring? It's best if your teacher can see your feet and knees, so plan to do yoga barefoot and in clothes that are not overly baggy, but comfortable enough for you to freely move.

What is your scent policy? Because scents can cause a distraction in class, particularly for those who have sensitivities or allergies, we ask that you refrain from using perfume, artificial fragrances, fragrant lotions or other pungent smells on your body or yoga gear.

Can I take off my shirt in classes at SYA? We actually polled our students about this, and there was overwhelming preference from all our students, men and women alike, that students keep their shirts on while practicing. Shirts on also reduces the transmission of sweat and bacteria to our props, and makes it easier for teachers to make manual adjustments.

Can children come to class? Children 13+ are welcome in class, if they are comfortable with and respectful of the yoga environment, which requires the ability to pay attention and to remain focused in their bodies.